Last month, schools closed for the year, releasing thousands of kids from their usual occupation.

More recently, the summer solstice came, marking the beginning of the Northwest’s happiest season.

But parents might not share the summertime enthusiasm their children have — school keeps kids entertained, and in its absence, that job is usually inherited by parents.

With antsy kids pent up inside the house, some stay-at-home parents are desperately searching for places to go and things to do for the sake of their own sanity.

Luckily, Silverdale’s Farmers Market is in full swing. Though the market officially kicked off in April, booth owners said they are preparing for big business as summer truly begins.

The market is open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is located between the boat launch and the Waterfront Park in Old Silverdale. A long pier and well-kept playground are within throwing distance of the market and provide an enjoyable experience for kids and parents alike.

“You’ve got the park, and we’re right here on the waters,” said Daphne Jasinski, a veteran vendor. “There’s a nice breeze coming in. It’s a good place for everyone.”

As she pointed out, with the sun high in the sky on Tuesday, the number of people coming to the market has gradually increased. So don’t expect a ghost town.

“It was pretty slow in spring, but we’re definitely picking up the pace now,” Jasinski said.

Jasinski market booth is filled with items she sews, including fabric grocery bags, aprons, and more.

Others agreed that things have been becoming livelier at the market.

“Actually, it’s been improving around here,” said Jamie Patterson, who sells salsa made from her family recipe. “It’s been better this week than it was last week.”

People are attracted to the market for many reasons: homemade aprons and jars of salsa, or some tasty organic cherries, handcrafted jewelry, garden flowers, and “the best barbecue out there,” according to an employee at Redneck’s BBQ.

Ask around and one might find that just about everything being sold at the market is locally produced, meaning that there’s a good chance that the vendor selling the merchandise also created it with their own hands. Families can expect a certain quality that comes from directly interacting with the producer rather than a middleman, vendors say.

And families will find that the market is a safe, welcoming place.

“We all watch each other’s backs,” Jasinski said. “It’s a great environment for everyone.”

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